Russia vs Nigeria: Brentford star benched, Boniface and Okoye start as the big guns return to Super Eagles XI

Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface are back in the Super Eagles lineup for their international friendly game against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium, Soccernet.ng reports.

At the Unity Cup, all the participating teams did not call some of their best legs. But going into the game against the Russians, coach Eric Chelle handed call some of his big guns.

Chelle has thrown them straight into the thick of things. Team captain William Troost-Ekong returns to center back, and he has been paired with Semi Ajayi.

Also, after watching Stanley Nwabali man the sticks at the Unity Cup, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has gotten a rare start.

At right-back, Ola Aina's unavailability has caused Chelle to use Bright Osayi-Samuel instead, leaving Bruno Onyemaechi to operate from the left side of the defence.

Then, in the middle of the park, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, and Christantus Uche get the nod to start.

Just in front of them is Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Then, Moses Simon will operate from the flanks, while Boniface will lead the attack.

Super Eagles: Which formation is Eric Chelle using against Russia?

Eric Chelle has employed a 4-4-2 diamond formation. There are four natural defenders in this lineup.

Then, the four midfielders are Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, Christantus Uche, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Boniface and Simon will operate from the Super Eagles' attack.